Real Madrid News
Croatia coach assured that 2022 World Cup is not the last tournament for Luka Modric
At 37, Luka Modric continues to dictate the midfield and matches as he did ten years ago. The Croatian magician is ageing like wine, and has shown no signs of slowing down. However, as he gets closer to 40, there are only so many games he can play.
For his players his age, it usually means retirement from international football. And while many presumed that this 2022 World Cup would be the last for Modric, the Croatian coach has assured fans that he expects the captain to continue after this as well.
“I’m sure this World Cup is not Luka Modrić’s last tournament with Croatia. He’s our captain and leader. He’s here to stay,” Zlatko Dalic said, as quoted by AS (h/t MadridXtra).
While Dalic does not specify if Modric will play another World Cup, he is likely talking about the 2024 European Championship in Germany. Modric will be 38 by the time that tournament kicks off, and could, in theory, still be a part of this Croatian side.
He is already a subject of an extension from Real Madrid, with the Galacticos ready to offer another one-year deal after his contract clocks up next summer.
As Real Madrid look to restart the campaign following the end of the international break, all focus will be on the upcoming El Clasico in Copa del Rey on April 5.
However, before they take on their arch-rivals for a fourth time this year, Real Madrid must see off the challenge from Real Valladolid in La Liga on Sunday.
Given Barcelona’s 12-point advantage at the top of the table, La Liga appears to be a lost cause for Real Madrid right now. But that is no excuse for Carlo Ancelotti’s men to appear complacent, as they look to push for a late title charge.
However, heading into this contest, three Real Madrid players proceed with caution as they are running the risk of missing out on the next league game against Villarreal due to yellow cards.
The three players in question are Eduardo Camavinga, Dani Carvajal, and Dani Ceballos. All three of these players have picked up four yellow cards in La Liga this term. Therefore, picking up another booking against Valladolid will rule them out in the next game.
Camavinga, in particular, has been a vital part of the Real Madrid squad since the turn of the year, impressing onlookers with his performances and versatility.
Carvajal, too, is a critical option at right-back and his experience could go a long way in helping Real Madrid end the league campaign on a positive note. Not to mention, the club lack the services of a reliable alternative, which has led to links with Reece James this coming summer.
Ceballos, on the other hand, has been one of the emerging stars this year. The midfielder’s performances have been excellent lately, and he would not want to lose any momentum by picking up a suspension ahead of the important Villarreal game next week.
